Mattress Review
Bear Elite Hybrid
Details
Type: Hybrid
Firmness: Medium (5), Medium Firm (6), Firm (8)
Sizes: Twin, Twin XL, Full, Queen, King, California King, Split King
Price Range: $1,231 – $2,548
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Highlights
- Three firmness levels suit a wide range of sleepers
- Multiple materials designed to help regulate temperature
- Sustainable certifications indicate the mattress is free of harmful chemicals
Drawbacks
- May be too firm for stomach sleepers under 130 pounds
- Medium model may not provide enough edge support for some sleepers
- Luxury price tag may be out of reach for shoppers on a budget
Sleep Doctor’s Take: Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is available in three firmness levels, which makes it ideal for a range of sleeping positions and body weights. Sleepers can choose from medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8) models. A zoned comfort system and copper-infused memory foam distinguish the mattress from other hybrids on the market. We found this mattress excelled in pressure relief and temperature neutrality.
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress: An Introduction
Founded in 2014, Bear Mattress offers several collections of all-foam and hybrid mattresses for both adults and children, as well as mattresses designed for trundles and RVs. In addition to mattresses, Bear offers a wide range of bedding products, including bed bases, pillows, toppers, and mattress protectors.
We’ll examine the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress, a luxury bed with copper-infused memory foam, zoned coils, and three firmness options. We’ll cover its construction and design, what it feels like to sleep on this mattress, and how it performs in key performance performance categories.
How We Review
Our team of sleep experts carefully evaluate each mattress using our dialed-in testing methodology. Our testers consist of a range of body types and preferred sleeping positions so we can accurately predict how various sleeper types will respond to different mattresses. When testing mattresses, we pay particular attention to features that matter when choosing a bed, like pressure relief, motion isolation, and temperature regulation.
What’s It Like to Sleep on the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress?
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress looks and feels like a luxury mattress, constructed with high-end materials like copper-infused memory foam and a five-zone coil core with reinforced edges. The quilted cover stays cool to the touch and the top layer of memory foam conforms gently to the body. Offered in three firmness levels, sleepers of any body weight and sleeping style can find a firmness level that works for their needs.
Like any mattress, the Bear Elite Hybrid has pros and cons, which are important to keep in mind when looking for the right mattress.
Bear Elite Hybrid Pros and Cons
Pros
- Medium firmness performs very well for back sleepers
- Materials are fiberglass free and certified by CertiPUR-US and GREENGUARD Gold
- Three firmness levels allow most sleepers to find the right fit
Cons
- 14-inch profile may require deep-pocket sheets
- Conforming surface inhibits movement
- Additional cost to ship to Alaska or Hawaii
Sleeping Positions, Body Weight, and Firmness
Our testers examined all three firmness levels of the Bear Elite Hybrid. We tested each mattress to see how it performed for a range of sleep positions and body weights. With the variety of firmness options available, sleepers of any sleep position and body weight should find the right mattress for their needs.
The soft model rated as a medium (5) on our 10-point firmness scale. This firmness level is often a good fit for side sleepers and people who weigh under 130 pounds, as they benefit from a softer surface that conforms to the body’s curves.
The medium firm (6) model is slightly less conforming than the medium (5) model. Our testing team found this version was a good fit for back sleepers under 230 pounds and side sleepers above 130 pounds.
The Elite Hybrid’s firm option rates an 8 on our 10-point firmness scale. Stomach sleepers and people over 130 pounds who like a sturdy mattress without too much give should find this model suits their needs.
Bear Elite Hybrid – Soft
Firmness: Medium (5)
| Under 130 lbs. | 130-230 lbs. | Over 230 lbs. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | 5/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Back Sleepers | 5/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Stomach Sleepers | 3/5 | 2/5 | 2/5 |
Bear Elite Hybrid – Medium
Firmness: Medium Firm (6)
| Under 130 lbs. | 130-230 lbs. | Over 230 lbs. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Back Sleepers | 5/5 | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Stomach Sleepers | 3/5 | 3/5 | 2/5 |
Bear Elite Hybrid – Firm
Firmness: Firm (8)
| Under 130 lbs. | 130-230 lbs. | Over 230 lbs. | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Sleepers | 2/5 | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Back Sleepers | 3/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Stomach Sleepers | 3/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Side Sleepers
The Bear Hybrid Elite tested well with side sleepers on our team, who benefit from gentle contouring and support under the hips and shoulders to prevent pressure points and keep the spine in alignment. The medium (5) model received excellent marks from our side sleepers under 130 pounds. The medium firm (6) option suited those between 130 and 230 pounds, and the firm (8) version was ideal for those weighing over 230 pounds.
Back Sleepers
Back sleepers benefit from a balance of firm support and gentle cushioning under the shoulders and lower back. Back sleepers that weigh over 230 pounds on our testing team gave top marks to the firm (8) model, while those weighing between 130 and 230 pounds preferred the medium firm (6) option. Our back sleepers under 130 pounds found the medium (5) and medium firm (6) provided an ideal combination of support and comfort.
Stomach Sleepers
Our stomach-sleeping testers preferred the firm (8) Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress. Stomach sleepers need a firm surface that prevents the midsection from sinking too deeply into the mattress. Sinking too deeply into a mattress can cause a stomach sleeper’s back to arch uncomfortably, and the firm (8) model provided adequate support to keep the spine in alignment.
Our Performance Ratings
Our testing team evaluated the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress, using a five-point scale to rate the mattresses on essential performance categories, with 1 indicating poor performance and 5 signaling excellent performance.
Pressure Relief
Rating: 4/5 (Soft), 3/5 (Medium, Firm)
Our testers found that the medium firm and firm models moderately contoured to the body and alleviated pressure points, while the soft option offered very good pressure relief. The shoulders, hips, and back often settle deeper into a mattress, and sleepers tend to experience more pressure points in these areas.
Temperature Neutrality
Rating: 3/5 (Soft), 4/5 (Medium, Firm)
Since less conforming beds allow for better airflow around the body, our testers found the medium and firm mattresses slept slightly cooler than the medium (5) option. While memory foam tends to retain heat, the Bear Elite Hybrid uses copper-infused memory foam, which is designed to draw heat away from the sleeper. Pocketed coils in the support core also allow air to circulate throughout the mattress. All models should prevent sleepers from overheating at night, though hot sleepers might opt for the medium firm (6) or firm (8) options.
Motion Isolation
Rating: 4/5 (Soft), 3/5 (Medium, Firm)
For sleepers who wake up easily when their partner rolls over or gets out of bed, a mattress with good motion isolation can help couples sleep throughout the night. Layers of memory foam and polyfoam help trap movement before it travels across the surface. Our testers found that the mattress kept movement to a minimum, with the medium model performing slightly better than the medium firm and firm models.
Edge Support
Rating: 3/5 (Soft), 4/5 (Medium, Firm)
We found that the medium firm and firm models had above-average edge support. Reinforced coils around the perimeter prevent sinking when sitting or sleeping near the edge. Sturdy edge support also allows couples to spread out on the bed while still feeling supported. The medium version has moderate edge support, so sleepers who want more usable surface area might find the medium firm or firm model better suits their needs.
Durability
Rating: 3/5
Wth high-quality materials and construction, the Bear Elite Hybrid fared well in durability testing. Zoned pocketed coils in the support core help the mattress resist sagging over time. While quality materials and testing suggest it should last around six to eight years, the bed’s actual lifespan depends on individual use and care.
Ease of Movement
Rating: 2/5 (Soft), 4/5 (Medium, Firm)
The medium firm and firm models had minimal sinkage during our testing, enhancing pushback and the sleeper’s ability to move across the surface. Due to the coil construction, hybrid mattresses generally allow for better ease of movement than foam mattresses. Our testers had a harder time moving on the medium (5) model, as softer foams generally conform more to the body under pressure and make it slightly harder to shift and change positions during sleep.
Sex
Rating: 3/5 (Soft, Medium), 4/5 (Firm)
The Bear Elite Hybrid’s firm (8) model offers superior ease of movement compared to its softer counterparts. While all models should move silently and feel comfortable, the firm model features more bounce and very good temperature regulation. This makes it easy for couples to shift positions and less likely to overheat.
Off-Gassing
Rating: 3/5
Mattresses that contain foam typically have an odor once they are removed from their packaging. This is caused by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Although the smell can be unpleasant, it’s not known to be harmful. The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress performed similarly to other hybrid mattresses we’ve tested, producing a moderate amount of off-gassing. Sleepers should unbox the mattress in a well-ventilated area. The odors should dissipate within a few days.
What Is the Bear Elite Hybrid Made Of?
The Bear Elite Hybrid has four layers of foam and a pocketed coil support core. A hand-quilted cover made with a Celliant and polyester blend and phase change material is designed to draw heat away from the body. A layer of copper-infused memory foam contours to the body, preventing pressure points from forming, and a layer of polyfoam acts as a transitional layer between the comfort system and the support core.
The support core consists of individually wrapped coils, which are zoned for targeted support and reinforced along the edges. Finally, a layer of high-density polyfoam beneath the coils provides a sturdy base and reinforces the mattress’ upper layers. The mattress has a 14-inch profile.
The foam materials are CertiPUR-US certified, meaning they are made without known harmful compounds. The Elite Hybrid mattress is fiberglass free as well as GREENGUARD Gold certified, indicating it meets strict third-party chemical emissions limits.
| Mattress Construction Layers | Details |
|---|---|
| Cover Material | Celliant and Polyester Blend with Phase Change Material |
| Comfort Layers | Copper-Infused Memory Foam Zoned Polyfoam |
| Support Core | Pocketed Coils High-Density Polyfoam |
How Much Does the Bear Elite Hybrid Cost?
The Bear Elite Hybrid falls in the luxury category of hybrid mattresses. The priciest of Bear’s collections, the Elite Hybrid includes a host of features not found in other Bear models. This includes the addition of phase change material in the quilted cover, copper-infused memory foam, and zoned support in the coil support core.
| Sizes | Price | Dimensions | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin | $1,721 | 38” x 75” | 14” | 60 lbs. |
| Twin XL | $1,782 | 38” x 80” | 14” | 60 lbs. |
| Full | $1,917 | 54” x 75” | 14” | 80 lbs. |
| Queen | $2,111 | 60” x 80” | 14” | 110 lbs. |
| King | $2,511 | 76” x 80” | 14” | 140 lbs. |
| California King | $2,511 | 72” x 84” | 14” | 140 lbs. |
| Split King | $3,565 | 76” x 80” (2 pcs.) | 14” | 120 lbs. |
Which Bear Mattress Is Right for You?
Bear offers a wide range of mattresses to suit diverse sleep needs and preferences. The Bear’s flagship Original Mattress is a budget-friendly option for people who want a quality bed that is supportive and durable. The Bear Pro Hybrid adds a layer of gel-infused memory foam for added pressure relief. The Bear Star Hybrid is a medium firm (6) hybrid model, which has a slightly shorter profile than the Elite Hybrid, and is a good choice for average-weight sleepers.
Bear Mattresses at a Glance
| Model | Firmness | Mattress Type | Height | Base Price (Queen) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bear Original | 7 | Foam | 10” | $998 |
| Bear Pro Hybrid | 7 | Hybrid | 10” | $1298 |
| Bear Star Hybrid | 6 | Hybrid | 13” | $1732 |
| Bear Elite Hybrid | 5, 6, 8 | Hybrid | 14” | $2111 |
Discounts and Coupons
Bear offers frequent sales and discounts on their website throughout the year. Special discounts are available to members of the military, health care workers, teachers, and first responders. Bear often bundles a gift or discounted products such as pillows, sheets, or bases with the purchase of a mattress.
Where Can You Buy the Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress?
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is available online through Bear’s website, as well in Brooklyn Bedding and partner showrooms across the U.S. For those wanting to try the Bear Elite at home, Bear offers a 120-night sleep trial.
| Buying Information and Customer Policies | |
|---|---|
| Availability | The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is available online and in select stores. When purchased online, the mattress ships free to locations in the contiguous United States. Additional fees apply to ship the mattress to Alaska or Hawaii. |
| Shipping | Shipping for Bear Mattresses is free to the lower 48 states. Each mattress is compressed and wrapped in plastic, then shipped in a box. To set up the mattress, position it where you sleep, then unwrap it from the plastic. Once unwrapped, it will fully expand within 24 to 48 hours. |
| Additional Services | Bear offers White Glove delivery through a third party who will set up your new mattress, remove your old one, or assemble a new bed base. Prices vary based on the desired services. |
| Sleep Trial | Each Bear mattress purchase includes a 120-night sleep trial. Customers need to try out the mattress for at least 30 nights before emailing Bear to start the return process. Bear will pick up the mattress and issue a full refund in the event of a return. When possible, returned mattresses are donated locally. |
| Warranty | Bear offers a limited lifetime warranty, which provides a remedy if the mattress is found to have defects in materials or workmanship. The warranty is limited to one replacement per mattress purchase. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or imperfections due to ordinary use. If found to be defective, Bear will replace the mattress at no charge. |
Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress FAQ
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is available in three firmness levels: medium (5), medium firm (6), and firm (8). The right firmness level depends on a sleeper’s preferences, body weight, and primary sleep position. In general, side sleepers and people with lower body weights prefer a softer bed, while those with higher body weights, stomach sleepers, and back sleepers prefer a firmer bed.
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress conforms well to the body, and the variety of firmness levels can be suitable for people with back pain. A mattress that supports a person’s preferred sleep posture and maintains spinal alignment can help minimize back pain.
The benefits of a hybrid mattress depend on its construction. Hybrids with memory foam, like the Elite Hybrid, often excel in pressure relief and motion isolation. Hybrids that use microcoils, latex, or other types of foams tend to be more responsive and temperature neutral.
The Bear Elite Hybrid Mattress is made in the U.S.. The mattress ships from one of the company’s U.S. factories directly to your door.
About The Author
Staff Writer, Product Testing Team
Garen is a health and lifestyle content creator. She realized the importance of sleep when her children made getting a good night’s rest more challenging. Garen is always learning something new about the wide world of sleep and sleep products. Married with two girls, ages 7 and 11, she is a book nerd and a lover of pop music, travel, and the Pacific Northwest.
- POSITION: Side Sleeper
- TEMPERATURE: Neutral Sleeper
- CHRONOTYPE: Wolf
Get Your Sleep Questions Answered Live on 4/30
Have questions about sleep? Get all your sleep-related questions answered in a Live Q&A on YouTube with renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus at 5 p.m. PST/8 p.m. EST.
